Expanding Your Storage Without Compromising the Ride
Roof cargo boxes are the MVPs of long road trips, ski weekends, or just freeing up precious cabin space. Whether you’re packing extra luggage, outdoor gear, or bulky seasonal items, a good roof box adds serious utility without the bulk of a trailer or the clumsiness of soft bags.
But not all roof boxes are created equal. Some are built for volume, others for aerodynamics. Some open from both sides, others from just one.
And trust us—if you’ve ever tried to get a snowboard out of a box that only opens on the passenger side in a tight parking lot, you know why that matters.
We’ve sifted through the noise and narrowed it down to the most reliable, well-built, and user-friendly roof cargo boxes available right now.
What to Know Up Front
- Boxes vary in volume and footprint. It’s not just about cubic feet—some boxes are long and narrow (great for skis), while others are short and deep (better for duffels and gear).
- Check your crossbar compatibility. Most cargo boxes need factory or aftermarket roof racks with crossbars. Always double-check the box’s clamp system against your setup.
- Dual-side opening is a game changer. Not all models offer it, but being able to open from either side of your vehicle is incredibly convenient—especially on busy roads or in snowy parking lots.
- Pay attention to the height. Taller boxes give you more storage but may cause clearance issues in garages or drive-thrus. Low-profile boxes tend to be more aerodynamic and quieter.
- Locks aren’t all equal. Some use basic cam locks, while others have more robust multi-point systems. If security matters, don’t go with the cheapest latch you can find.
So, What Should You Buy?
You don’t have to choose between style and substance. These roof cargo boxes are sturdy, secure, and surprisingly sleek—all while offering the flexibility to carry more when your vehicle just doesn’t cut it.
Best Overall
Our Top Pick
Best for Smaller Vehicles
Most Aerodynamic
Best Budget Option
Best for Extra-Long Gear
A Smarter Buyer’s Guide: What to Actually Consider With Roof Cargo Boxes
Buying a roof box isn’t just about gaining more space. You want something that won’t mess with your driving, ruin your mileage, or turn packing into a chore. Here’s how to sort the great from the gimmicky.
Start with your real-world needs.
Think about what you’re actually hauling. Long, narrow boxes are great for skis and snowboards, but they’re not ideal for bulky camping gear or multiple duffel bags. Conversely, short and deep boxes might work better for families who pack wide, not long. Always match the box shape to your lifestyle.
Volume isn’t everything.
Yes, cubic feet matter—but the shape of that space is just as important. One 18 cu ft box might swallow ski gear with ease, while another forces you to leave the poles behind. Internal length and height, plus how much the box tapers at the ends, all affect real-world capacity.
Mounting systems matter more than you think.
Not all clamps are created equal. Tool-free designs like Thule’s PowerClick make setup a breeze, while basic U-bolts can leave you sweating on the driveway. If you’ll be removing and reinstalling the box often, this matters—a lot.
Pro tip: Always measure your crossbar spread first. Many boxes require a specific spacing range to mount securely.
Access design makes or breaks your user experience.
Here’s where premium models start pulling ahead. Dual-side access isn’t just a luxury—it’s a lifesaver when you’re parked awkwardly or trying to load in tight spaces. But even among high-end models, some extra perks make daily use smoother:
- Built-in gear straps or tie-down points
- Internal supports that keep the lid propped open
- Grip-friendly handles for cold-weather loading
- Safety locks that prevent you from removing the key unless it’s fully latched
Don’t ignore weight and load limits.
Your car can only handle so much up top. A 60 lb box plus 100 lbs of gear could put you right at the edge of your roof rack’s capacity. Even worse, exceeding that limit could affect handling, mileage, and safety. Always:
- Check your vehicle’s roof load rating
- Confirm your crossbar weight capacity
- Add the empty weight of the cargo box into your calculations
Locking mechanisms aren’t created equal.
Some boxes use cheap, single-point locks that are more about keeping the lid closed than deterring theft. Look for multi-point locking systems—ideally with a mechanism that engages automatically when closed and prevents removal from the car unless unlocked.
What will driving with this thing actually feel like?
Lower-profile boxes (like the Yakima SkyBox 16 or Thule Force L) cut wind resistance and stay quieter on the highway. If you hear loud whooshing or feel wobble at high speeds, odds are you’ve either mounted it too far forward or chosen a bulky model that catches air. Box shape and placement matter—especially on small or mid-size vehicles.
Living with it day to day.
If the box stays on your car most of the year, convenience becomes a big deal. Will it block your sunroof? Can you still open your rear hatch? And how much headroom will you lose when pulling into your garage? These everyday details are easy to overlook, but they can quickly turn a solid roof box into an annoying hassle.
Final Thoughts
Roof cargo boxes are one of those upgrades you don’t know you need until you have one. Whether you’re traveling with kids, camping gear, or skis, they offer convenience that beats Tetris-packing your back seat. Choose one that fits your car, matches your gear, and gives you quick access when you’re on the move. Get it right, and you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Willem is an avid mountain biker and outdoor sports enthusiast. For years, he has been riding mountain bike stage races, including the grueling Cape Epic. As a father of three adventurous kids, he knows about packing a vehicle to haul his gear safely and responsibly from home to any exciting weekend or holiday destination.
